Stack.com – Featuring Spin 32 – October 8, 2014

I’ve been commuting by bike for about 7 years now. During that time, I’ve used a multitude of different bags to carry my gear to and from work. In the past I had more messenger-style packs, both the single-strap and bookbag style. Though they worked well, stood up to the elements and had an aesthetic I liked, that style of bag wasn’t always practical or completely waterproof. I decided to try a more technical pack for reasons of comfort and functionality. The Osprey line of commuter bags fit the bill…

Traditionally thought of as a hiking pack company, Osprey produces a full line of bags specifically designed for bike commuters. I tested the Spin 32. I was tentative at first, because although their backpacks look good on the trail, I wasn’t sure as how the style would carry over to the street.

I was impressed.

The bag doesn’t look like a typical bike messenger bag. The styling is somewhat aggressive and the reflective strips make it look pretty cool in the dark (not to mention the extra visibility). And whereas some messenger bags tend to have only one large pocket, the Osprey Spin has many pockets that are fully functional for carrying varying loads: a standard padded laptop sleeve, a main compartment and a smaller front compartment for odds and ends like pens and small notebooks. A few side pockets were a perfect fit for my water bottle or coffee mug…